Pickleball’s Rise in Delaware: The FY24 Bond and Capital Improvements Act has brought significant funds into Delaware’s sports tourism landscape. The Delaware Tourism Office (DTO) recently announced $11.3 million in grants to enhance local sports infrastructure, including new facilities for emerging sports like pickleball.
Among the notable recipients is DE Turf, located on Route 1 in Frederica, which received $3 million for facility expansion. Despite its name, DE Turf isn’t about horse racing but rather focuses on hosting a variety of outdoor sports on artificial turf, including pickleball. This grant shows the growing importance of sports tourism in Delaware’s economy and the increasing popularity of sports like pickleball.
Upscale Motels and Pickleball Complexes
In an interesting development, the grant to DE Turf coincided with the opening of a high-end SpringHill Suites across the street. While the motel offers luxury accommodations, the focus of sports enthusiasts is on the $2 million awarded to Midway Motion & Fitness in Rehoboth Beach.
This grant will fund the construction of 16 new pickleball court complexes, a testament to the sport’s rapid rise in popularity. Pickleball, a mix of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is gaining traction, and the new facility will cater to its growing player base.
Adding to the diverse sports offerings, FlingGolf is making waves as a unique blend of golf and lacrosse. Unlike traditional golf, FlingGolf uses a lacrosse-like stick to propel a golf ball down the course.
This innovative sport, which can be played on any regular golf course, has found a niche at the American Classic Golf Club in Lewes, where it is featured as a “Friday night special.” The sport emphasizes long-distance throws and offers a fresh twist on conventional golfing, aligning with the current trend of emerging, dynamic sports.
News in Brief: Pickleball’s Rise in Delaware
The FY24 Bond and Capital Improvements Act has significantly impacted Delaware’s sports tourism sector with $11.3 million in grants announced by the Delaware Tourism Office (DTO). DE Turf in Frederica, a key recipient, secured $3 million for facility expansion, focusing on hosting sports on artificial turf, including emerging sports like pickleball.
This funding highlights the state’s commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure and boosting its tourism economy. Additionally, the grant reflects the growing popularity of sports like pickleball, showing its role in Delaware’s evolving sports landscape.
Also Read: Texas Ranchers Plan to Transform Austin With the Pickleball Craze
